As has been the case since the fall, the Islanders and the Rangers have been really the only reasons for New York City-area sports fans to feel pride. And they seem to be getting better as the season progresses.

When the Islanders traded for Jaroslav Halak’s rights and then signed him to a four-year, $18 million contract over the summer, they envisioned a horse No. 1 goalie who could carry them to new heights. So far, so good.